Geographical Distribution

Related Species

Honey Locust

Gleditsia triacanthos

Honey Locust ( Gleditsia triacanthos) is a deciduous tree of the Fabaceae family which is native to central North America and considered to be a significant invasive weed in other regions of the world. It is a fast growing tree which produces fragrant cream-colored flowers late spring which form in clusters from the base of the leaf axils. They produce flat legume pods as fruit which mature in early autumn and drop from the tree.

Honey locust trees commonly have dense clusters of 3-10 cm (1.25 to 4 in) long sharp thorns growing out of the branches, with some even reaching lengths of up to 20 cm (8 in). When thorns first develop they are relatively soft, but quickly harden with age. The branches should be cut so horses don’t injure themselves, if these trees are found in pastures or fencelines.